The NWS has warnings out about sneaker waves being possible over Wednesday and Thursday of this week. This is in part because of strong ocean currents that will occur during this time frame. Conditions will be present to produce some dangerous waves on the south Oregon coast. Please use caution if you plan to be at the coast the next few days or know someone who is.
From the NWS:
We’re moving into sneaker wave season, so we figured it would be important to mention some of the safety concerns we have. Sneaker waves, like their name implies, can surprise beach goers and combers. These waves can knock you down and sweep you out to sea. Every year, people get swept off of jetties, logs, and rocks at southern Oregon Beaches. Our waters are cold and rocky, and chances of survival are small. Therefore, we advise not climbing the rocks, logs, and jetties. Make sure you stay aware of the surf zone, and never turn your back on the ocean.
Beach Hazards Statement
Coastal Hazard Message National Weather Service Medford OR 108 PM PDT Tue Oct 16 2018 ORZ021-022-171500- /O.CON.KMFR.BH.S.0003.181017T1200Z-181018T0600Z/ South Central Oregon Coast-Curry County Coast- 108 PM PDT Tue Oct 16 2018 ...BEACH HAZARDS STATEMENT REMAINS IN EFFECT FROM LATE TONIGHT THROUGH WEDNESDAY EVENING... * Hazards...Breakers of 9 to 10 feet with sneaker waves possible. Combined moderate and long period swell will create waves with larger run up than usual. * Timing...from 5 AM Wednesday morning through 11 PM Wednesday evening. The highest risk for sneaker waves will be between 5 AM and noon Wednesday. * Locations Include...All beaches on the south central Oregon and Curry County coast. The threat will be highest on west facing beaches. * Potential Impacts...Waves with higher run ups can surprise beach goers, knock them off their feet, and sweep them into the ocean. Large waves will also wash over jetties and rock outcroppings that normally stay dry. * View the hazard area in detail at https://www.wrh.noaa.gov/mfr/HAZARD Precautionary/preparedness actions... Stay off of jetties, rocks, and logs on beaches. Never turn your back on the ocean. A Beach Hazards Statement is issued when threats such as sneaker waves and other hazards create life-threatening conditions in the surf zone. Caution should be used when in or near the water.
